In order to be taken seriously by an employer, you must come across as a professional from the first point of contact -- when you e-mail your CV.

We send a potential recruiter our CV in the hope of making a good impression. After all, it is that impression that leads to an interview. However, what we fail to remember is that the person who receives it will judge you on the entire e-mail, not just your CV.

BPO training/communication consultant Nasha Fitter of Fitter Solutions suggests the following rules:

1. The greeting

Use one of these: Dear Mr. Patil, Dear Sir/Madam, or Dear HR Manager. Never include the person's first name. Dear Mr. Sanjay, or Dear Mr. Sanjay Patil are both wrong.

2. The introduction

In the first paragraph of your e-mail, state who you are, how you received the person's e-mail address, and what position you are interested in. Then, write a couple of sentences about your last job or what you are currently doing.

For example: 'My name is Aarthi Sharma and I received your contact information through your company web site. I am interested in applying for a position in your Accounts department and have over two years of experience in this area.'

3. Refer to the attached CV

Always include a sentence saying your CV is attached: 'Please find attached to this e-mail a copy of my CV that details my past experience.'

4. Reference for the future

At the end of your e-mail, include a sentence saying that you will follow-up with the person and that you look forward to hearing from them or speaking to them: 'I will follow-up with you during the week to confirm that you have received this e-mail. I look forward to speaking with you.'

5. Salutation

Use the salutation 'Regards' as it is always professionally accepted. Include both your first and last name and place your phone number under it:

Regards,
Aarthi Sharma
98200 00004.

The entire e-mail should look something like this:

Dear Mr. Patil,

My name is Aarthi Sharma and I received your contact information through your company web site. I am interested in applying for a position in your Accounts department, and currently have over two years of experience in this area.

Please find attached to this e-mail a copy of my CV that details my past experience.

I will follow up with you during the week to confirm that you have received this e-mail. I look forward to speaking with you.

Regards,
Aarthi Sharma
98200 00004.

A crisp, professional message like this should increase your chances of a call back from a potential employer.

Nasha Fitter operates Fitter Solutions, a communication and training organisation with expertise in public and interpersonal communication.

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